Crans-Montana, Switzerland – A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of New Year’s Day at the popular Le Constellation bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort, leaving dozens dead and over 100 injured, authorities confirmed. The fire erupted at approximately 01:30 local time during New Year celebrations.
The multi-level bar, a favorite destination for young party-goers, was packed at the time of the incident. Emergency services described the scene as chaotic, with severely burned victims arriving in cars and on stretchers, while the smell of smoke lingered throughout the area.
Swiss authorities confirmed that the victims include multiple nationalities, although identifying them may take weeks due to the severity of injuries. The Italian foreign ministry reported that around 40 people may have died in the blaze, based on information from Swiss police. French media also confirmed that at least two French nationals were among the injured.
Officials dispatched ten helicopters, 40 ambulances, and over 150 emergency workers to the site. Rescue operations have continued throughout the day, with authorities urging residents to avoid unnecessary visits to hospitals to prevent adding pressure on medical services.
Beatrice Pilloud, Prosecutor General of Valais, confirmed that preliminary investigations point to an accidental fire, and no evidence of an attack has been found. Authorities are working to identify the deceased and return their remains to families as quickly as possible.
Local residents and journalists described the region as being in shock. Romaine Morard, a Valais-born reporter, said the tragedy has left the community deeply unsettled, recalling past regional disasters, but noting the scale of today’s event is even more devastating.
World leaders and foreign offices have offered support. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with Switzerland and the victims’ families, while the UK Foreign Office confirmed its readiness to assist any British nationals affected by the fire.
